Thynnid Wasps
Thynnidae
Classification
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Subphylum: Hexapoda
- Class: Insecta
- Order: Hymenoptera
- Superfamily: Thynnoidea
- Family: Thynnidae
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Thynnidae: //ˈθɪnɪdiː//
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Summary
Thynnidae are a diverse family of parasitoid wasps that exhibit unique predatory behaviors primarily targeting beetle larvae. They are important in ecosystems for controlling pest populations and have a variety of adaptability-related characteristics, including different reproductive strategies among males and females.
Physical Characteristics
Thynnidae are large wasps that can reach up to 30 mm in length. Most species are small, with notable sexual dimorphism where many females of certain subfamilies are wingless, while males are generally winged and more slender.
Identification Tips
Males often have wings and are typically larger when females are wingless. Females are found hunting for ground-dwelling beetle larvae and showing distinct behaviors related to their predatory habits.
Habitat
Thynnid wasps are predominantly found in terrestrial environments where their beetle larvae prey resides, including areas where fossorial beetles are common.
Distribution
Worldwide, with the highest diversity in Australia.
Diet
Adults primarily feed on nectar, while larvae are parasitoids of beetle larvae, especially those in the superfamily Scarabaeoidea.
Life Cycle
Females paralyze the beetle larvae with a sting before laying an egg on it, providing a food source for the wasp larva. The life cycle includes egg, larval, and adult stages.
Reproduction
Adults mate in the air, often with the male carrying the female using his genitalia. Egg-laying occurs on or within the paralyzed host beetle larvae.
Ecosystem Role
Thynnidae serve as parasitoids of beetle larvae, contributing to the control of pest populations, particularly ground-dwelling scarab beetles.
Economic Impact
Some species are considered beneficial as biological control agents of agricultural pests.
Collecting Methods
- Netting adults near flowers
- Trapping with baited traps targeted at their specific prey
Preservation Methods
- Pinning specimens
- Preserving in alcohol for molecular studies
Evolution
Thynnidae were previously classified under Tiphiidae until studies demonstrated their status as a separate, non-monophyletic lineage.
Tags
- Thynnidae
- Thynnid Wasps
- Flower Wasps
- Parasitoids
- Biological Control